Alexander Korda's Private Lives [1936] [Criterion] (DVD)

Alexander Korda

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4-Disc Collection. Eclipse Series 16.

Though born to modest means in Hungary, Alexander Korda would go on to become one of the most important filmmakers in the history of British cinema. A producer, writer, and director who navigated toward subjects of major historical significance and mythical distinction, Korda made a name for his production company, London Films, with the Oscar-winning The Private Life Of Henry VIII. He then continued his populist investigation behind the scenes and in the bedrooms of such figures as Catherine the Great, Don Juan, and Rembrandt. Mixing stately period drama with surprising satire, these films are exemplars of grand 1930's moviemaking at it's best.

The Private Life Of Henry VIII - Charles Laughton gulps beer and chomps on mutton, in his first of many iconic screen roles, as King Henry VIII, the ultimate anti-husband.

The Rise Of Catherine The Great - The future empress of Russia and her husband, Grand Duke Peter, enact a Hepburn and Tracy-esque battle of the sexes over the Saint Petersburg throne.

The Private Life Of Don Juan - Silent superstar Douglas Fairbanks Sr. speaks, and says good-bye to acting, in this, his final film role, as the legendary ladies' man, humorously past his prime.

Rembrandt - A less lascivious Laughton returns, this time as the Dutch painter, struggling with both his finances and romantic loneliness in his autumn days.